Overview

• Sam Darnold has revitalized his career with a breakout Pro Bowl season, leading the Vikings to a 14-2 record and positioning them as NFC contenders.
• Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, drafted 10th overall in 2024, remains sidelined after a preseason meniscus injury but is expected to fully recover by spring 2025.
• NFL insiders predict Minnesota will receive significant trade interest for McCarthy due to a weak 2025 quarterback draft class and his high potential.
• Head coach Kevin O’Connell has expressed confidence in McCarthy as a future starter, complicating speculation about a possible trade or role change.
• The Vikings must weigh re-signing Darnold, potentially via a $41.3 million franchise tag, against McCarthy's development and the team's long-term cap strategy.